La Perouse Bay Makena
Explore Maui's raw volcanic coast at La Perouse Bay, a rugged landscape of lava fields meeting the Pacific, teeming with marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
La Perouse Bay Makena
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Maui's raw volcanic coast at La Perouse Bay, a rugged landscape of lava fields meeting the Pacific, teeming with marine life.
"A rugged, raw coastal experience with vast lava fields and clear waters."
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Lava rock is sharp! Proper footwear is a must for exploring the bay.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
This is a remote spot with no services. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lava Fields of Haleakala
Shoreline
Explore the dramatic, rugged lava fields from Haleakala's most recent eruption. A truly unique volcanic landscape.
Spinner Dolphin Sightings
Offshore
Keep an eye out for pods of spinner dolphins playing in the clear waters. A magical wildlife encounter from the shore.
Hoapili Trail (King's Highway)
Trailhead
Hike along this historic trail, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Maui's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Rugged Terrain
Remote Adventure: Pack Accordingly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Lava rock is sharp! Proper footwear is a must for exploring the bay.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
This is a remote spot with no services. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure.
🚗 SUV Recommended for Road
The road can be rough; an SUV offers a smoother, safer drive.
🦭 Look for Wildlife
You might spot spinner dolphins, rays, or even Hawaiian monk seals!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Lava rock is sharp! Proper footwear is a must for exploring the bay.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
This is a remote spot with no services. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure.
🚗 SUV Recommended for Road
The road can be rough; an SUV offers a smoother, safer drive.
🦭 Look for Wildlife
You might spot spinner dolphins, rays, or even Hawaiian monk seals!
📵 No Phone Service
Download offline maps and let someone know your plans.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Perouse Bay is lauded for its dramatic, rugged volcanic landscape and the chance to witness marine life like spinner dolphins. Visitors appreciate the raw, remote beauty and the unique geological features. However, the rough terrain, lack of amenities, and limited swimming opportunities are noted drawbacks.
"This was a once in a lifetime phenomenon to experience. Black sand and lava rocks from the last eruption from almost 400,000 thousand years ago.
It was a long drive back there, be sure to have drinks, snacks, and anything you might need for a few hours with no contact with the outside world. Also would not recommend going back there with anything smaller than an SUV."
Christi Brown
"Beautiful place to visit and observe wildlife. I've seen Spinner Dolphins from the shore in the past, but during my most recent visit, I had the pleasure of seeing rays and a Hawaiian Monk Seal. The terrain is rough and rugged, but it's definitely worth the visit.
*Photo of the seal was taken from a distance with zoom."
Noah Schmidt
"La Perouse Bay offers a rugged, raw coastal experience with vast lava fields and clear waters. The hike along the rocky shoreline is uneven and requires sturdy shoes, but the dramatic volcanic landscape and occasional sightings of spinner dolphins make it worthwhile. Facilities are minimal, so bring water and plan accordingly for a remote adventure."
Shane Perry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Wailea, head south on Makena Road (Highway 31). Continue past Makena Beach State Park until the road ends at La Perouse Bay. The drive itself is scenic, showcasing recent lava flows.
The final stretch of the road to La Perouse Bay is unpaved and can be rough. While some sedans can manage with extreme caution, an SUV is highly recommended for a more comfortable and safer journey.
The best way to access La Perouse Bay is by driving to the end of the road in Makena. There's a small parking lot where you can begin your exploration on foot.
Public transport options are very limited or non-existent for reaching La Perouse Bay due to its remote location. Renting a car, preferably an SUV, is the most practical way to visit.
Yes, you can drive to La Perouse Bay from Kihei by heading south on Highway 31. The drive will take you through scenic coastal areas and past Makena Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit La Perouse Bay. It is a natural, undeveloped area accessible to the public free of charge.
La Perouse Bay is open 24 hours a day, as it is an outdoor natural area. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
No advance booking is required for La Perouse Bay. As it's a natural attraction with no formal entry, you can visit anytime.
Facilities are very minimal. You'll find outhouses for restrooms, but no shops, restaurants, or lifeguards. It's essential to be self-sufficient.
La Perouse Bay is generally not recommended as a swimming beach due to the rough, jagged rocks and strong currents. It's better suited for experienced free divers or for observing marine life from the shore.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main hiking experience involves exploring the rugged lava fields along the coastline. You can also access parts of the historic Hoapili Trail (King's Highway) from here, offering dramatic ocean views.
Visitors often spot spinner dolphins from the shore. You might also see Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, and various seabirds.
While Kanahena Cove nearby is excellent for snorkeling, La Perouse Bay itself is more challenging due to the rocky entry and currents. Experienced free divers might find it rewarding.
Sturdy hiking shoes or closed-toe athletic shoes are highly recommended due to the sharp lava rocks. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Yes, be aware of the rugged terrain, strong ocean currents, and lack of lifeguards. Stick to marked trails and never turn your back on the ocean.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic contrast of the black lava fields against the blue Pacific Ocean. The rugged coastline, unique rock formations, and potential wildlife sightings offer stunning photographic subjects.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting conditions, casting a warm glow over the lava fields and ocean. Midday can be harsh, but still offers dramatic landscapes.
Drone regulations can vary and are subject to change. It's crucial to check current FAA and local Maui regulations before flying a drone in this area. Respect any posted signage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lava fields and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting like dolphins. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
The entire shoreline offers incredible viewpoints. Simply walking along the trails and exploring the edges of the lava fields will reveal numerous dramatic perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities. While not a swimming beach, the chance to spot dolphins or seals from the shore can be a thrilling highlight for children. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventurers
The terrain is rugged, so proper hiking boots are essential. Be prepared for sun exposure and carry ample water. The raw, untamed beauty of the lava fields and the ocean views make this a memorable trek for experienced hikers. +1📸 Photographers
Capture the textures of the lava fields, the power of the waves crashing against the shore, and if you're lucky, wildlife like dolphins or seals. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Landscape of La Perouse Bay
+1Walking through these lava fields feels like stepping onto another planet. The textures and formations are incredibly diverse, from smooth, ropy pahoehoe lava to jagged a'a lava. The contrast between the dark rock and the vibrant blue of the Pacific Ocean is visually striking. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the immense geological history of Maui and the ongoing processes of nature.
+1Wildlife Encounters at La Perouse Bay
Beyond dolphins, the bay is also known to host Hawaiian monk seals, a critically endangered species. Keep an eye on the shorelines and rocky outcrops for these majestic creatures. Rays and various seabirds are also commonly sighted. The rich marine ecosystem here underscores the importance of preserving these natural habitats.
Exploring the Hoapili Trail
As you hike, you'll encounter unique flora adapted to the harsh environment and gain a profound appreciation for the island's natural beauty. The trail can be strenuous, so it's advisable to carry plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and be prepared for sun exposure. It's a rewarding adventure for those seeking a more immersive exploration of Maui's wilder side.
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